View of centre court action at the North Bay waterfront on Saturday. PHOTO by: Jazz Mathon
Canada’s first ever NORCECA beach volleyball stop was undoubtedly a “smash” with the competitors. While some guests from the Carribean found it a little cold, they had nothing but praise for how organizers were able to set things up in just five weeks.
“They set up an awesome tournament, the courts are great, it’s close to the lake, the view is great and I like it a lot,” says Karen Cope from team Costa Rica.
Many athletes were quick to praise the volunteers, who were easy to spot in their bright green t-shirts.
“The staff and the volunteers are really, really good, nothing is missing, food is good, everything is good,” shares Blanca Ocana of Guatamala
“I like how they treat the athletes, they make sure we have everything we need and the volunteers are really great during the games, they’ve been really, really helpful,” adds Allison Daley of the U.S.
Her teammate, Kendra Vanzwieten went as far to say it’s one of the best organized stops she’s been to so far.
“Great scenery, they made everything with the players, they did everything really professional, really nice, it’s great.”
Organizer Amedeo Bernardi says he is thrilled about all the positive feedback and says despite a little rain on Saturday, the weather is holding up.
“If there is anybody we have to thank, it would have to be Mother Nature, she’s been so cooperative and you know what, this is beach volleyball, they play in the rain.”
Saquille Barker and Kyle Brown from Barbados are taking part in their first ever international competition and say the fans are into the games.
“Everybody is just nice, applauding us, they’re awesome. The event and the area are beautiful”
Members of the Canadian team were also impressed with the venue.
“It’s definitely different, but being here, the fans are great, there’s a good crowd, lots of people out so, I mean we know it’s beautiful up here anyways, but we are pleasantly surprised with the turnout and all the attention with the media and stuff,” says Kacie Mactavish of Team Canada 2.
Over a thousand people came through the gates on Saturday and bigger crowds are expected on Sunday for the semis and finals. Bernardi says there are already talks going on behind the scenes to see if North Bay can once again host next year’s Canadian stop.
